Abu Dhabi Sets Regional Benchmark with Civil Family Law for Foreigners and Non-Muslims

This reform reflects the Emirate’s broader vision of legal modernization, tolerance, and inclusion. By enabling foreigners to access a civil legal process aligned with international norms, Abu Dhabi has reinforced its reputation as a welcoming, pluralistic society that respects cultural diversity and protects individual rights.

Since the enactment of Law No. 14, the uptake has been significant. In the first half of 2024 alone, more than 8,000 civil marriage applications were processed, bringing the total number of civil marriage contracts to 36,000. These figures represent couples from diverse nationalities, faiths, and backgrounds, highlighting the global appeal and accessibility of the system. The court has also overseen over 590 divorce filings, 5,700 civil wills, and 360 estate and inheritance cases—demonstrating the court’s growing relevance and effectiveness.

The specialized Civil Family Court offers jurisdiction over a full range of personal status matters, including civil marriage, no-fault divorce, child custody, wills, inheritance, and estate planning. It provides an accessible and secular legal alternative for non-Muslim residents and visitors, with proceedings conducted in a culturally sensitive and linguistically inclusive manner.

In support of this initiative, the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department has actively partnered with key government stakeholders to broaden awareness and accessibility. In late 2022, the Judicial Department and the Department of Culture and Tourism convened to explore strategic ways to promote the Emirate’s civil marriage services among tourists and residents alike. The collaboration aims to position Abu Dhabi as a destination for couples seeking legally recognized civil marriage ceremonies, with dedicated facilitation for visiting foreigners.

Foreign visitors to the Emirate are now able to complete civil marriages during their stay, reflecting a bold and modern approach to legal services that complements Abu Dhabi’s broader economic and social diversification strategies. The Civil Family Court has become a model of judicial innovation in the region, offering a flexible legal framework that balances efficiency with cultural sensitivity.

With a legislative and judicial ecosystem designed to evolve alongside global standards, Abu Dhabi continues to set new precedents in the field of family law. These reforms not only serve the needs of an increasingly international population but also reinforce the Emirate’s attractiveness as a legal, professional, and humanitarian hub.